Is Barker (V), NY Tap Water Safe to Drink?
Graded A- with no contaminants above EPA limits. Here's everything we tested and how Barker (V) ranks. What to do next ↓
89/100
waterverge.com Barker (V), NY — Water Quality Report
Barker (V)'s drinking water received a grade of A- (89 out of 100), indicating good water quality. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 577 residents using purchased surface water.
Lead levels were measured at 10.0 ppb (90th percentile), which is within EPA limits but above recommended levels. This system has not yet been tested for PFAS under the EPA UCMR 5 program.
No violations are on record for this water system.
What to know about Barker (V)'s water
Barker (V) ranks #293 out of 855 cities in New York for water quality, placing it mid-range in the state.
The city draws from surface water sources, which are more susceptible to seasonal runoff and agricultural contamination, requiring extensive multi-barrier treatment including coagulation, filtration, and disinfection.
While lead levels are within EPA limits, they are above the recommended 5 ppb threshold that health organizations consider ideal. A point-of-use filter adds an extra layer of protection.
As a small community water system, Barker (V) may have fewer resources for advanced treatment technologies and infrastructure upgrades compared to larger utilities.
Barker (V) has a clean compliance record with no violations on file, reflecting strong operational practices.
Water quality score
See methodology →Is Barker (V), NY water safe to drink?
Based on EPA testing data, Barker (V)'s tap water is generally safe to drink. The water system earned a grade of A- (89/100), meeting federal drinking water standards across key contaminant categories. The city's 2 water systems serve approximately 577 residents using surface water (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs).
Recent water quality updates for Barker (V)
A timeline of significant water quality events, violations, and data updates.
Latest EPA compliance and testing data incorporated into Barker (V)'s water quality assessment. Grade: A- (89/100).
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4348). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Federal disaster declaration (FEMA DR-4129). Flood event — may have impacted local water infrastructure.
Key contaminant findings
Based on the most recent EPA sampling data for Barker (V)'s water supply.
Within EPA limits but above the American Academy of Pediatrics recommended level of 1 ppb. An NSF 53-certified filter provides additional protection.
Flood & environmental risk
Niagara County has experienced 6 federally declared disasters since 1973. Flooding and severe storms can overwhelm water treatment plants, cause sewage overflows, and introduce agricultural runoff, bacteria, and sediment into drinking water supplies. Local water sources include Eighteenmile Creek, Lake Ontario (Thirtymile Pt).
Where does Barker (V)'s water come from?
Barker (V)'s drinking water comes from surface water (rivers, lakes, or reservoirs), supplied by 2 water systems serving approximately 577 people. Surface water sources are more susceptible to contamination from runoff, industrial discharge, and algal blooms, requiring extensive treatment. Nearby water bodies include Eighteenmile Creek (river), Lake Ontario (Thirtymile Pt) (lake).
What Barker (V) residents can do
Your water utility is required to publish an annual Consumer Confidence Report (CCR) with detailed testing results. Ask for the latest copy or check your utility's website.
Run cold water for 30 seconds before drinking, especially in the morning. Lead and copper leach from household plumbing when water sits in pipes.
Barker (V)'s area has a history of flooding. After severe weather, watch for boil water advisories from your local utility.
Data: EPA SDWIS, UCMR 5 (PFAS), FEMA, NOAA. Last updated May 2026.
Top contaminants to know
View all ↓Violations & advisories
Flood & disaster history
Niagara County has experienced 6 federally declared disasters since 1973. Flooding and severe weather can compromise water treatment infrastructure and introduce contaminants into drinking water supplies.
Recommended water filters
Based on contaminants detected in Barker (V)'s water supply, we recommend the following filter types.
Full contaminants report
| Contaminant | Detected Level | EPA Limit | Unit | Category | Status |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Lead (90th percentile) LeadHeavy Metal A toxic heavy metal that can leach into drinking water from older pipes, solder, and fixtures. No amount of lead in water is considered safe. Health EffectsBrain and nervous system damage in children, kidney damage, high blood pressure, and reproductive problems in adults. EPA Limit15 ppb action level Common SourcesCorrosion of lead pipes, lead solder, brass faucets, and household plumbing. | 10.0 | 15 | ppb | Inorganic | Safe |
Lead level trend (90th percentile)
See how Barker (V) compares by contaminant
Explore where Barker (V) ranks among all New York cities for specific contaminants.
Water source & infrastructure
Where Barker (V)'s water comes from
Barker (V)'s drinking water comes primarily from surface water sources such as rivers, lakes, or reservoirs.
Surface water systems require multi-stage treatment including coagulation, sedimentation, filtration, and disinfection to meet EPA Safe Drinking Water Act standards.
These sources can be impacted by seasonal changes, stormwater runoff, upstream agriculture, and industrial discharge.
The system is operated by local government ownership and serves approximately 577 people through 2 water systems.
Water bodies near Barker (V)
Barker (V) is located near 2 notable water bodies. As a surface water system, these water bodies may directly influence the city's drinking water supply.
Water systems serving Barker (V)
| System Name | PWSID | Population | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| BARKER VILLAGE | NY3100556 | 577 | SWP |
| NIAGARA COUNTY WATER DISTRICT | NY3100567 | — | SW |
How Barker (V) compares
Full New York rankings →Barker (V)'s score of 89/100 is above the average of 74/100 among major New York cities. It outscores 9 of 10 nearby cities.
Nearby cities
View New York rankings →About Barker (V), NY
Learn more about your water
Guides and resources related to Barker (V)'s water quality findings.
Explore water quality across Niagara
Frequently asked questions
Is Barker (V), NY tap water safe to drink?
Barker (V)'s water quality earned a grade of A- (89/100). The water generally meets EPA standards and is considered safe for consumption. The city ranks #293 out of 855 cities tested in New York.
What contaminants are in Barker (V)'s water?
Lead was measured at 10.0 ppb (90th percentile). No violations on record.
How is Barker (V)'s water quality grade calculated?
The grade is based on four factors: violation history (40%), lead and copper levels (25%), PFAS contamination (25%), and regulatory compliance (10%). The score is also adjusted based on how complete the available data is. See our methodology page for full details.
Do I need a water filter in Barker (V)?
While lead levels are within EPA limits, a filter adds extra protection. Based on current data, basic filtration should suffice for additional peace of mind.
Where does Barker (V)'s water come from?
Barker (V)'s water is sourced from Purchased surface water. The city has 2 water systems serving approximately 577 residents.
How does Barker (V)'s water compare to other cities?
Barker (V) ranks #293 out of 855 cities in New York (better than 66% of state cities) and #3142 out of 15744 cities nationally (80th percentile). The grade of A- reflects the combined assessment of violation history, lead and copper levels, PFAS contamination, and regulatory compliance.